Recycling has become an integral part of waste management strategies worldwide, but a recent phenomenon called “wishcycling” has posed new challenges. Wishcycling refers to the act of trying to recycle items that are not suitable for recycling, causing contamination in recycling bins and hindering the overall recycling process. In response, the UK government has implemented new regulations to address this issue and encourage more responsible recycling practices.
The primary objective of these rules is to curb “over-recycling” and encourage individuals to be more cautious about the items they place in their recycling bins. By doing so, the government aims to reduce the amount of contaminated waste that reaches processing centers and ultimately ends up in landfills.
Certain commonly recycled items, such as toothpaste tubes, takeaway packaging, and juice cartons, either require specialized recycling treatment or are too contaminated to be processed effectively. Consequently, individuals need to reconsider how they dispose of these items and avoid placing them in recycling bins.
The UK government set a target three years ago to recycle 65% of all household waste by 2035, with no more than 10% ending up in landfills. However, a recent survey revealed that 80% of UK households still lack clarity on effective recycling practices. Questions such as whether items need to be washed out, if they can be flattened, or what to do if cardboard gets wet contribute to the confusion surrounding recycling guidelines. It’s crucial to note that wet cardboard should not be included in recycling bins.
The complexity of recycling rules often leads individuals to choose the easier option of throwing items away instead of grappling with whether they can be recycled. Recognizing this issue, researchers are investigating how bio-based and biodegradable plastics can contribute to a more circular economy, where items are reused instead of being discarded or shipped abroad. However, while progress is being made, cost-effective production of packaging using these materials is still some way off. Therefore, recycling remains the most viable option at present.
Confusion about recycling largely stems from inconsistencies in waste collection methods across different regions of the UK. Recycling protocols can even vary from one street to another, compounding the problem. To navigate these discrepancies, individuals are advised to consult their local authorities for specific recycling guidelines. Each household should have received a leaflet explaining what can and cannot be recycled, but this information is also readily available on local authorities’ websites.
Typically, plastic containers like bottles, food trays, margarine tubs, and yogurt pots are easily recyclable. Aluminum foil, cans, glass bottles, and jars can also be recycled. However, to optimize recycling efforts within each council’s infrastructure, individuals are encouraged to refer to their local collection guides.
The variations in recycling practices across different authorities can be attributed to the waste management companies employed for recycling waste after collection. This discrepancy accounts for the inconsistencies in recycling processes from one area to another.
For example, crisp packets are generally not accepted in household collections, although some regions may have specific arrangements for their recycling. The complex composition of crisp packets, featuring multiple layers of plastic and metallic materials, necessitates specialized processes for their breakdown. Consequently, it is advisable to take them to local supermarkets, as many chains now provide designated collection points for crisp packets and other soft plastics.
Similarly, pet food pouches can often be recycled, but not typically through household collections. Many larger supermarkets offer recycling options for these items as well.
While most greasy plastic takeaway packaging is recyclable, rinsing them before disposal is advisable to prevent contamination during the recycling process and to maintain a pleasant odor in the bin between collections.
One significant challenge pertains to greasy pizza boxes. Due to the recycling process for paper and cardboard, removing food contamination is particularly challenging.
